Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma used his 79th Independence Day address at Lammual to announce one of the most ambitious reform packages in the state’s recent history. Speaking in what he described as “entirely my own words,” Lalduhoma declared that his government’s focus would be on clean governance, economic revival, and sustainable development, with reforms that Mizoram had never before witnessed.
At the heart of the reforms is a determined push to root out corruption. The state government has granted general consent to the CBI, enabling the central agency to investigate corruption cases in Mizoram without seeking prior permission. In addition, the Right to Public Services Act has been significantly expanded—from 51 to 140 services—ensuring that citizens can demand timely delivery of essential services with greater accountability.
Other key measures include mandatory biometric attendance for government employees to curb absenteeism, and the revival of the State Vigilance Committee after nearly a decade of dormancy. An Integrity Pact will now be compulsory for all government contracts, aimed at increasing transparency in public procurement.
“We are committed to building a government that works with integrity and efficiency. Mizoram deserves nothing less,” Lalduhoma told the crowd, stressing that his administration would adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward corruption.
Technology is a cornerstone of the new reforms. The government is implementing the e-Office system across 43 departments, digitising land and ration card records, and introducing electronic point-of-sale (e-POS) systems in all fair price shops. Citizens will now benefit from online OPD registration, Inner Line Permit (ILP) renewal alerts, and a new app for reporting incidents directly to authorities.
Future plans include fully digital birth and death registrations and even a cab booking service, signalling Mizoram’s intention to modernise its public service delivery systems and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Lalduhoma also highlighted his government’s success in restoring fiscal health. The state cleared an overdraft of ₹65.05 crore last year and reduced liabilities by over ₹679 crore in FY 2023–24. For the current year, the government has set a target of slashing liabilities by a staggering ₹21,003 crore.
Social welfare has not been ignored. The old-age pension has been increased tenfold, from ₹100 to ₹1,000, while measures have been introduced for timely payment of salaries and direct procurement from factories to reduce middlemen exploitation. Mizoram has also reported a profit of ₹61 crore from power trading, further bolstering the state’s revenue stream.
On infrastructure, the government has sought central approval for a network of concrete roads across Mizoram and has already secured ₹59.05 crore for the Vairengte–Sairang road project.
Agriculture and allied activities remain a priority for rural growth. Plans are underway for large-scale procurement and processing of broom, ginger, turmeric, and chilli, which are key cash crops of the state. The government also aims to expand rubber plantations and beekeeping projects, creating new income avenues for farmers and rural households.
Lalduhoma proudly reminded citizens that Mizoram continues to hold the status of India’s first fully literate state. The government has ensured the timely distribution of laminated textbooks to schoolchildren. On the urban front, the CM announced plans to develop Thenzawl as a “Peace City”, highlighting the state’s commitment to harmony and sustainable urban living.
Infrastructure in Aizawl is also set to improve, with preparations underway for a world-class railway station that will eventually host the Rajdhani Express, connecting Mizoram more effectively with the rest of the country.
Youth empowerment featured prominently in Lalduhoma’s speech. Under the “Empowering Mizoram Sports” programme, the state has allocated ₹2.5 crore to prepare athletes for the 2036 Olympics, marking a long-term investment in sports excellence.
In terms of employment, the government is moving ahead with recruitment for the newly sanctioned Mizo Territorial Army unit as well as 300 BSF posts, offering local youth opportunities in national service and security.
Acknowledging the scale of challenges ahead, Lalduhoma admitted that his administration was still a work in progress but firmly on the right path. “We may not be perfect yet, but we strive to reach the goal,” he said, expressing gratitude to the people of Mizoram for their trust, patience, and prayers.
